I have found that ReadWriteThink (RWT) is an excellent resource for me and my preservice students, and we refer to it often in my courses. For several of the courses I teach, my students must write lesson plans to be used in demonstration lessons and during practicum placements. In the past, I found that they do not always include as much detail in the plans as I would like. Consequently, I include the URL of one of my RWT-published lesson plans in the text of my syllabus, so that they can see the amount of detail that should be included in their lesson plans. Not only does this help convey my expectations, but it also helps them view me as a teacher who models expectations.

The result is that many of my students incorporate RWT in their practicum and student teaching placements and, ultimately, in their future classrooms. I recently asked my current students about their viewpoints toward RWT, and Karen’s comment is indicative of the value they gain from its use:

“I have learned as a teacher candidate that an important characteristic in a profession is the sharing of ideas and information to help ensure the overall success of that profession. ReadWriteThink.org is a wonderful resource that allows teachers and prospective teachers to access information that will improve classroom instruction.”